Taieri Recreational Tramping Club

3 -10 March 2023. Bannockburn. Trampers and Hikers and Bikers. Leaders: Anne and Rod Ward.

The club planned a trip to Bannockburn for three days of tramping and three of bike rides. This all started on Friday 3rd of March with accommodation at the old Bannockburn school now run by the Otago Outdoor Education Trust. Accommodation was a mix of the old schoolhouse, an attached cottage and the barracks for boys and girls at the other end. Anne and Rod had a full programme of activities for the six days, including delegating the evening meals to teams for the first four nights, this included providing nibbles, main course, dessert, and home baking for supper.

Friday 3rd March – Day 0
Travelled to Bannockburn and settled into the camp. It was a beautiful hot afternoon/evening under the veranda soaking up the atmosphere. With rooms sorted some had a swim, others happy to watch. Team 1 prepared scrumptious ham, salads, etc as required for the duty team.

First night, settling in. Photo & caption John

Bannockburn Camp. Photo Helen

Saturday 4th March – Tramping
Link to Day 1 tramping report: Kanuka Track and Trail to Old Cromwell Town.

Sunday 5th March – Tramping
Link to Day 2 tramping report: Kawarau River Track.

Monday 6th March – Tramping
Link to Day 3 tramping report: Bannockburn sluicings, Stewart Town and Long Gully Loop Track.

Tuesday 7th March – Biking
Link to Day 4 biking report: Bannockburn Camp to Smiths Way and return.

Wednesday 8th March – Biking
Link to Day 5 biking report: Lake Dunstan Trail and Millennium Track to Alexandra.

Thursday 9th March – Biking
Link to Day 6 biking report: Gibston to Arrowtown and Back.

Friday 10th March
All that remained to do for those who stayed overnight was to pack up, tidy up, and head back home.

Thanks to all cooking groups for preparing and organizing meals, that were varied and enjoyable, great menus for the week.

Also to all the drivers for ferrying us to various start and pickup points, your service was invaluable and very much appreciated.

Overall our accommodation was well suited for our tramping group. Bannockburn Outdoor Trust was very obliging to our needs. I’m sure we’ll return for more adventures.

Thanks, Anne